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A Girl's Guide To Doing A Solo Trip To North Goa On A Budget

Ten-Second Takeaway

Ladies, what better time than now to take that solo trip you’ve been planning forever? And what better place could there be than Goa? Save this guide because here’s where we’re telling you all that you can do and more to make this the most epic holiday…that too on a budget.

Getting Around

If you’re planning a budget trip, then make sure you take the bus or the train to Goa. They’re both safe options, and if you’re lucky and there’s a flash sale going on, you could even fly to Goa for as cheap as INR 1,500.

Travelling around in Goa can get expensive, especially by taxis, but if you have to use them then we recommend you go with our tried and tested drivers who are polite, respectful and more importantly safe. Additionally, it helps that they charge as per market rate. You could call Vijay from Saligao on +91 9764362109, Madan from Anjuna on +91 9822152754 , Siddharth from Calangute on +91 9763441630, or Naman in Assagaon on +91 9764399326. All of them will happily come to your desired location in Goa, and even do airport/ station pick-ups and drops. You could also use Goa’s famous motorcycle taxis called Pilots if you want a cheaper option {and have just a backpack}. We suggest calling Hanuman on +91 95522 78955 or Mohan on +91 9923117420.

It is advisable to call all these guys in advance and either book them or at least check if they might be available for your holiday. There is public transport such as buses, which run between main villages and Mapusa, Panjim, etc. Ask any of the locals and for INR 10 and upwards you can hop across and check out other parts of Goa. Though be warned, they’re functional only till 9pm.

Beaches To Visit

Goa’s beaches will naturally be on your must-visit list and we recommend that you avoid Baga, Calangute or even Anjuna. Instead, head to Sinquerim, Candolim, Morjim, Vagator, Ashvem, Mandrem or Keri Beaches if you want to just chill by yourself without creepy men ogling at you. These beaches aren’t crowded and are absolutely stunning {we’ll let the pictures do the talking}. Do remember that during the monsoons all shacks are closed and swimming in the sea is not allowed either.

Be A Party Hopper

If you want to check out the nightlife and are apprehensive about stepping out alone, then we recommend the places we’ve had a great time at by ourselves {a few of them have weekly ladies nights, so free drinks are on offer, girls}. Not to mention, these options include places that have live jazz music, Motown nights, salsa nights and more, too. Cantare, Cohiba, Showbar, Soro, The Big Tap, Watsons, Taverna, and Habanero are just a few of our favourites.

Goa Beyond The Beaches

If you want to explore Goa beyond its beaches and are worried about doing it alone, then check up Soul Travelling that does curated walks across Mapusa, Panjim, Margao, etc. and learn new things while making new friends. And did we mention that they even do a pub crawl in Panjim that explores the history and bizarre stories about some of its oldest bars? You could also check out Walk With History that does organized group walks through the ancient Kadamba dynasty areas, Ponda, etc. There’s also the Assagaon Heritage Walk with Felly Gomes or the Photo Scavenger Hunt done monthly at Cantare. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous and wish to go diving or snorkeling, you could connect with Venkat, the owner of Barracuda Diving and a perfect gentleman, who is not only an experienced diver himself, but is full of stories to tell you. And then there is Terra Conscious that does ethical Dolphin and other water trips you will love. Please note that all water-sport activities like Diving, Dolphin Tours, Surfing etc are shut during the monsoon months from June till September.

Cheap & Comfy Stay Options

As a single girl, where you stay solo is the most important thing and we help you find some great options to suit your budget. That Crazy Hostel, The Funky Monkey Hostel in Anjuna, The Lazy Llama Hostel or even the Back 2 Basics in Morjim are all great options for a fab stay. Some of them even offer exclusive girls-only dorms, which means you will make new friends and have a partner in crime for your escapades. Some of the hostels even offer free accommodation if they have requirement for any specific assistance that you can help them with. Or then look at Saraya, which will even let you stay for free, in exchange for assisting them around their property with some tasks. If you want private rooms on a budget, then Michele’s Garden in Anjuna & Anna Mews in Calangute offer cute spaces and are both at a walking distance from restaurants & bars. Back 2 Basics Hostel & Michele’s Garden shut down during the monsoon months from June till September.